This life that we live can be pretty scary! What are we really supposed to be doing while we are here anyway? It can be especially difficult to do what you are supposed to, while going through trials and tribulations.
Jesus tells the disciples in Matthew 10:16-19 that He is sending them out as sheep among wolves. They are to be as shrewd as snakes and as harmless as doves. He warns them that they will be handed over to the courts and flogged with whips in the synagogues. He also tells them that they will stand trial before governors and kings because they are His followers. What stood out most to me was when He told them “this will be your opportunity to tell the rulers and other unbelievers about me. When you are arrested, don’t worry about how to respond or what to say. God will give you the right words at the right time” (Matt 10:18-19).
So, the answer to the question What are we really supposed to be doing while we are here is, we are to be using this time (trials/tribulations) as an opportunity to share the Gospel! Yes, especially while we are being persecuted or ridiculed for our faith. The disciples were beaten, jailed and eventually lost their lives for Christ. Remember Jesus’ comforting reminder to His disciples. Do not worry because God will give us the right words at the right time to share with those who persecute.
“Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever.” (THE WESTMINSTER SHORTER CATECHISM)
The apostles left the high council rejoicing that God had counted them worthy to suffer disgrace for the name of Jesus. And every day, in the Temple and from house to house, they continued to teach and preach this message: “Jesus is the Messiah.” (Acts 5:41-42)
Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. (James 1:1)
